The Year of the Pig starts on February 17. During the yin fire Pig year, symbolized by fire on top of water, water will conquer fire. This could mean that in 2007, there will be more international conflicts before the “birth of a new world order,” according to Feng Shui Master Raymond Lo. In his website, he noted such conflicts and coups in certain countries could then lead to “global well-being.”

According to Theodora Lau, author of “The Handbook of Chinese Horoscopes,” published by arrow Books Limited, this is a “year of goodwill to all.” It’s an excellent time for business. This is going to be a tough year for weight watchers, because it’s also party time with the fun-loving Pig. Ms. Lau cautions against overspending and overindulgence, and advises prudence in money matters because the boar “is always susceptible to swindlers.”

Those born in the Year of the Pig are honest, forgiving and peaceful by nature, optimistic and fun-loving, according to Susan Levitt. Levitt is the author of “Taoist Feng Shui” and “Taoist Astrology,” both published by Destiny Books. She also noted those born during Pig year “are creative and have exquisite taste in the arts.” This year, she sees good luck in family, affairs of the heart and in business for those born in the Year of the Pig (1911, 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007): They could even inherit or win money.

In the website FengShuiLiving.com Feng Shui Master Lo said generally, this is a good year for those born during the years of the Tiger, Rabbit and Goat, but added a better evaluation is based on exact birth details, including the hour. According to him, this is a year for friendship and romance for those born in the year of the Rat–and travel and changes are in store for those born in the years of Snake, Rooster and Ox.

He added this year favors earth and metal industries. This applies to businesses involved in “property, mining, hotel, chemicals, insurance…machinery, computer, high tech industries, skincare, health business.” Wood industries, such as textile, publications, paper, forestry, furniture will remain reasonably profitable. This year, people should pay more attention to their heart and health in general, particularly those caused by stress.

Famous people born in Pig Years are: Senator Hillary Clinton, California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, talk show host David Lettermen, singer Elton John, actress Rachel Weisz, Thomas Jefferson, Ronald Reagan, Henry Ford, and playwright Noel Coward.

The predictions below are not meant to be taken too seriously, because a person makes his own destiny. Unless otherwise indicated, the outlook for 2007 below is based on Levitt’s article for Feng Shui Times. Levitt is a feng shui consultant and feng shui teacher at the California Institute of Integral Studies. Feng Shui, literally, wind and water, is the ancient Chinese art of environment placement to achieve balance and harmony.

Rat (Born 1900, 1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996): Next year is the Year of the Rat, when your lucky 12-year life cycle begins. So in 2007, concentrate on making plans for next year. Feng Shui Master Lo said this is a good year for friends and romance.

Ox (1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997): This is a good year for new contacts and good opportunities. There are “no major difficulties” in the horizon. Every now and then, take a break from working hard –Pig Year is also about banquets–so party on and enjoy!

Tiger (1902, 1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998): Expect “good business, wild luck, easy satisfaction, and contentment because Pig is Tiger’s dear friend.” Enjoy life, but try not to bust your budget doing so.

Rabbit (1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999): You are in harmony with Pig, so this is a good year. But your accomplishments this year may not be much, because you seem to prefer enjoying the good times.

Dragon (1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000): After 2006 Dog Year challenges, life is on an even course. Entertainment and travel are highlighted. Avoid overspending. Next year begins a lucky work cycle.

Snake (1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001): Achievements may be negligible because “Pig is opposite Serpent.” Try to avoid conflicts. Feng Shui Master Lo sees travel and changes this year.

Horse (1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002): This year success could be delayed due to miscommunication. In party-loving Pig Year, have fun, but try not to overindulge and overspend.

Sheep (1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003): This year, everything you touch “can turn to gold.” Romance and business outlook is good. You could even inherit or win in the lottery.

Monkey (1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004): Expect a better year after the tough past two years. Enjoy life. Business progress and maybe a new home are foreseen. But your plans could be delayed.  Look to 2008 for an even luckier year for business.

Rooster (1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005): Join Pig Year’s feast. Stop worrying, and have fun. Try to avoid arguments. Expect challenges, but dedication to work “can relieve a financial slump.”

Dog (1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006): Good luck continues from Year of the Dog last year. Focus on family and new friends. Enjoy a calm and peaceful Pig Year.